U.K. moves to tackle phishing

A U.K. government proposal would mean the scammers behind phishing attacks could face up to 10 years in jail.

May 31, 20055:29 PM PDT

The U.K. government is proposing changes to a fraud law that would mean scammers behind phishing attacks could face up to 10 years in jail. The Home Office has published the government's Fraud Bill, in which it suggests a new offence of fraud to close loopholes in the current law.

Under the proposal, the offence could be committed in three ways: By false representation, such as phishing scams; by failing to disclose information for financial gain; or by abuse of position. The Home Office is also planning to criminalise obtaining services dishonestly, possessing articles for use in fraud and participating in fraudulent business.

Dan Ilett of Silicon.com reported from London. For the full story click here.